Dolphin Diary – October 2016

We were very excited to see Sparkle with a new calf on the 26th October. WDC Volunteer Sharon Sharp sighted Sparkle with her new calf swimming near the Torrens Island Bridge. Sparkle is one of the Port River Dolphin matriarchs, she is a wonderful Mother and Grandmother. The new addition to the pod has been named Ruby. The name fits in very well with the names of some of Sparkles other calves, Twinkle, Crystal and Gem. It was great to see Ruby swimming well but like all new calves Ruby is spending a lot more time on the surface making her very vulnerable. It is important that people obey the speed limits, look out for dolphins and keep their distance so as not to stress Ruby or her mum. Sadly Sparkle’s last calf born at the beginning of last year passed away. Hopefully Ruby lives a long and happy life.

Sparkle with her new calf RubyPhoto courtesy of Sharon Sharp

One of the sights I find particularly spectacular is observing the dolphins leaping in the bow waves of the big ships as they arrive and depart the Port. It really is an incredible sight.

Port River Dolphin leaping in front of a ship

Port River Dolphin leaping in front of a ship

It has also been wonderful to see some great wake riding over the last couple of months. Port River Dolphin Marianna is one of our main wake riders and appeared to be having a really fun time leaping in the wake of the tugs on several occasions during the month as they returned to dock.